~ The world Right where you can see it*

Harnessing pedal power to light up Africa

When night falls over Rwanda, many rural communities far removed from the country’s electricity grid descend into darkness.

Unplugged from the power lines, households in these areas rely mainly on fuel-based devices such as kerosene lamps for access to light. Such lanterns, however, are polluting and costly: They emit toxic fumes, pose fire hazards and also put a strain on family budgets.